Studio 804

Studio 804 is a not-for-profit organization made up of graduate students pursuing their master’s in architecture degrees from the University of Kansas. Professor Dan Rockhill started this initiative nearly 30 years ago, with the desire to give his students hands-on experience in homebuilding. 

Dan recognizes the common assumption many have about architects: “They can draw it, but they don’t know anything about building.” Over the years, as curriculum and communication has moved online, this issue became more evident to him.  

Through Studio 804, his students get the opportunity to build an entire home on their own. Not only do they plan the layout, the materials used, and the project timeline – but they also personally work on the build site.  

“Involving the students in every step of the process gives them a greater respect for it before they go out into the real world as architects,” Dan said. 

Columbia Forest Products has been a proud supporter of Studio 804 for years. Since the program is not financially supported by the University of Kansas, they rely heavily on donations from building materials manufacturers to complete construction. Since it is also essential for the construction to be as sustainable as possible, every home is built to the U.S. Green Build Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum Standards, including the hardwood plywood. 

For the 2024 project at 436 Indiana Street, Columbia’s Red Alder on Classic Core was selected by the students. This product can be seen in the beautiful floor-to-ceiling cabinetry in the main hallway and reading nook/home office. The delivery of this donation was facilitated through Liberty Hardwoods, a longtime partner of Columbia. 

Columbia will always be overjoyed at opportunities to set up the next generation of architects and designers for success. Especially in a project like this, that instills in them a deeper pride in their work and desire for personal involvement. As a company dedicated to responsibly produced materials that can satisfy the stringent LEED platinum standard, it is also a point of pride. 

Columbia wishes all those involved with Studio 804 the best of luck in their future pursuits and is already looking forward to contributing to next year’s project! 

Find out more about Studio 804 on their website. 

Photos by Corey Gaffer